Modimolle municipality, formerly Nylstroom, in Waterburg is embroiled in nepotism allegations in which the mayor Kgaritsa Lekalakala and the municipal manager are accused by a workers' union of employing relatives.

In a memorandum delivered to management by workers affiliated to the SA Municipal Workers Union (Samwu) at the municipality last week, it is alleged that a brother of Lekalakala's husband has been hired as IT officer while two people who were already working in the IT department were overlooked.

"Our argument is that this particular man was brought in from outside and although he contested the position with two people who were already working in the same IT department he was just given the position because he is related to the mayor's husband," said Samwu chairperson at Modimolle municipality, Lesiba Seanego.

Samwu also claimed that a brother-in-law of the municipal manager was appointed as a general worker even though he did not apply for the position.

He allegedly applied for the position of artisan assistant but was appointed to the post of general assistant, which according to Samwu was not advertised.

Seanego also said a councillor's son had been hired as a salary clerk, also a position not advertised. "Our standpoint is that when there is a vacancy it must be advertised and applicants compete for it," he added. Patrick Chika, spokesperson for the municipality, said management would meet the union to respond to their memorandum.

"As far as we are concerned all processes were followed. "The posts were advertised followed by short listings, interviews then appointments. Samwu was present during the interviews as observers together with Imatu, the other union," said Chika.